Is anybody else coming out of winter feeling like you could audition for a part in Twilight? As I am currently unable to escape for 2 weeks to acquire a beautiful natural bronzed glow, I am calling in the Calvery; St Tropez.
I should start off by saying that I have always been a little sceptical of fake tan. I can't say the idea of looking like an Umpa Lumpa has ever really appealed to me. But being able to get a natural golden glow without running the risk of looking like I just stepped off the set of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, has made me a convert.
Before I get to the fake tan, lets talk skincare. Having exfolilated and moisturised skin will mean your tan will last longer and you won't get those horrible patches of colour on dry areas!
The night before you plan to fake tan, exfoliate your whole body, focusing on your knees and elbows. I then follow this a mositrusier, again focus on your knees and elbows. I am currently obsessed with this body butter from Dirty Works in Coconut Caress - it smells delicious.
It is not an essential but I would say invest in a tanning mitt. They reduce any risk of streaks and you get an even colour all over with no coloured palms.
I am currently using St Tropez's Express 1 hour tan, which I love. As its a foam you are far more likely to get an even tan, and it is also aborbed into the skin really quickly.
I use a little straight onto my tanning mitt and starting with my legs I work upwards in circular motions. Keep going all over your body, but you might need to ask someone to with your back - unless you are super bendy and can reach yourself!
You then leave it for an hour if you want a light colour, 2 for medium, 3 for dark. An hour tends to give me that sun-kissed glow. If I need a darker tan I leave it for an hour and a half Max. Then jump in the shower and wash off with warm water. It is that easy.
The only misleading thing about this product is the instant part. While you do get an instant colour, it is not the finished product. The tan will develop for the next 8 hours so don't expect the full effect straight away. I normally tan the night before and let it develop overnight, that way I am ready to roll in the morning.
Like most tanning products there is a slight smell which is most obvious when the tan is developing- another reason I leave it overnight! I then slather on my favourite body lotion in the morning and ta da- no fake tan smell!
The great thing about all St Tropez products? The colour has golden/bronze undertones rather than orange - so no tangoing to worry about.
If you have more time on your hands and don't want to jump in the deep end, try a gradual tanner. The best I have used is the Palmers Natural Bronze Gradual Tan. Not only does it smell Amazing - a chocolate scented body lotion? Yes please. Its super easy to use and gives a lovely subtle natural colour.
Don't forget to moisturise so your tan lasts as long as possible.
What are your favourite tanning products? I would love to know!
Love Olivia x
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